Baku Sham Trial of Artsakh Leaders Postponed Citing Bad Weather
The highly criticized trial in Baku against the captured leadership of Nagorno-Karabakh has been postponed, reportedly due to adverse weather conditions. The proceedings, widely condemned as a “sham trial,” were originally scheduled for February 24 but will now commence on February 27, according to Azerbaijani media outlets.
Weather Cited as Reason for Delay in Widely Condemned Trial
Azerbaijani authorities have attributed the postponement to bad weather in Baku. This justification has been met with skepticism, given the international perception of the trial as politically motivated. Critics and human rights organizations have consistently described the legal process as a “sham trial,” raising concerns about due process and the humanitarian treatment of the defendants.
Defendants Include Former Presidents and Top Officials of Nagorno-Karabakh
Fifteen individuals are being prosecuted in this case, comprising the former top leadership of Nagorno-Karabakh. The defendants include:
- Arkady Ghukasyan, former President
- Arayik Harutyunyan, former President
- Bako Sahakyan, former President
- David Ishkhanyan, former Speaker of Parliament
- David Babayan, former Foreign Minister
- Levon Mnatsakanyan, former Defense Minister
- David Manukyan, former Deputy Defense Minister
- Garik Martirosyan
- Melikset Pashayan
- David Alaverdyan
- Gurgen Stepanyan
- Levon Balayan
- Madat Babayan
- Vasili Beglaryan
- Erik Ghazaryan
These individuals, who held significant positions in the de facto Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, are now facing prosecution in Baku, further escalating tensions and concerns regarding human rights and international law.
Legal Proceedings Underway in Baku Military Court
The trial is being conducted at the Baku Military Court, presided over by Judge Zeynal Agayev. A team of six prosecutors is presenting the indictment, highlighting the significant state resources being dedicated to this controversial legal process. The choice of a military court for a trial involving civilian leaders and political figures raises additional questions about the fairness and impartiality of the proceedings.
Rescheduled Date and Continued Scrutiny
The rescheduled court session is set for February 27. International observers and human rights advocates are expected to continue monitoring the trial closely, raising concerns about transparency, fairness, and the rights of the defendants. The postponement, while officially attributed to weather, does little to alleviate the widespread criticism surrounding the legitimacy and purpose of this trial.
For deeper understanding of the situation in the region, refer to Azat TV’s Artsakh section.